In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce focuses on the importance of building a strong cancer care team. She explains the roles of various medical team members, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, and different types of nurses and nurse practitioners. She also highlights nonmedical support staff like social workers, nutritionists, and counselors.

Dr. JYP emphasizes the value of relying on your caregivers and fellow patients for support, and the need to inform primary care doctors and other specialists about your cancer diagnosis. She briefly discusses alternative therapies, advising caution and open communication with oncologists about any such treatments. The goal of the cancer team is to provide comprehensive support to help patients feel like themselves and achieve the best possible outcomes in their cancer journey.

Enjoy this information-packed episode.

3 Key Takeaways

1. Comprehensive Cancer Team: Learn about the different types of oncologists (medical, radiation, and surgical), and their distinct roles in your cancer care journey. Understanding these roles can help you better navigate and utilize your care team.

2. Essential Support Services: Discover the crucial nonclinical team members who can provide significant support, such as nurse navigators, financial counselors, nutritionists, social workers, and more. These professionals can help ease the burden of non-medical concerns.

3. Inclusivity of Care: Remember your existing healthcare providers, and keep them in the loop so that everyone is on the same page for your cancer treatment and beyond.

Show Overview


02:39 Introduction of the types of doctors and their roles on your cancer team.

05:39 Nurses and nurse practitioners are integral to your care.

08:13 Cancer center services include navigators and medical support.

13:42 Support groups provide helpful advice and mentorship for cancer patients.

17:47 If needed, ask the team for help with anxiety and depression. Some alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, can relieve discomfort in cancer patients.

19:48 JYP cautions against using herbal supplements for cancer treatment.These should always be cleared by the cancer team.

In this episode of The Cancering Show, Dr. JYP discusses the importance of cancer patients taking extra precautions during summer activities. She explains the sensitivity of chemotherapy patients' skin to sunburns and advises using mineral sunscreen and protective clothing. Dr. JYP also highlights the risks of swimming in certain types of water, the importance of proper head and hair care, and the need for hydration and avoiding strenuous activities in the heat. She offers other practical tips for those who are traveling, gardening, fishing and picnicking. Don’t worry; cancer patients can still enjoy most summer activities as long as they follow a few simple guidelines.

3 Key Takeaways


1. Sun Protection for Cancer Patients: Chemotherapy can make the skin more sensitive, increasing the risk of sunburn. Cancer patients should use a sensitive-skin, nontoxic sunscreen and wear SPF-protective clothing and hats to avoid sun damage, especially on areas such as the scalp and the tops of feet.

2. Hydration and Heat Protection: Cancer patients undergoing treatment are at a higher risk for dehydration and heat stroke. It's crucial to stay hydrated by consuming water and electrolyte replacement drinks, taking breaks in the shade, and watching for signs of fatigue. To prevent complications, avoid strenuous activities in extreme heat.

3. Food Safety for Cancer Patients: Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, making cancer patients more susceptible to foodborne illnesses. Patients should avoid raw oysters and uncooked seafood, and other foods like cold cuts or mayonnaise-based salads that could harbor harmful bacteria, especially in a picnic setting. Prioritize fresh, well-cooked foods to reduce the risk of infections and illness.

Never Miss an Episode

Please subscribe to The Cancering Show

Want us to deliver The Cancering Show to your email inbox?
Let us know by contacting Dr. JYP at cancering.com.

Thanks for listening to The Cancering Show, brought to you by USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute.

Please subscribe, rate and review The Cancering Show wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute
The Cancering Show is brought to you by USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute. MCI is a cutting-edge cancer research and treatment center built to fight cancer smarter in Mobile and Baldwin counties in Alabama. Our researchers and clinicians focus daily on the struggle against cancer, serving a potential catchment population of more than 4.1 million people, with a singular focus of advancing cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention throughout the Gulf Coast and beyond with science, technology and hope.

Want to know more about the Mitchell Cancer Institute?
Visit us at usamci.com or search for us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Mitchell Cancer Institute is a member of USA Health.

To learn more about all of USA Health hospitals, clinics and services, visit usahealthsystem.com.